Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers Theory, Design and Application

Absorbers and diffusers are two of the main design tools for altering the acoustic conditions of rooms, semi-enclosed spaces and the outdoor environment. Their correct use is important for delivering high quality acoustics.

Unique and authoritative, this book decribes how to effectively measure, model, design and apply diffusers and absorbers. It is a resource for new and experienced acousticians, seeking an understanding of the evolution, characteristics and application of modern diffusers. Absorption is a more established technology and so the book blends traditional designs with modern developments. The book covers practical and theoretical aspects of absorbers and diffusers and is well illustrated with examples of installations and case studies.

This new edition brings Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers up-to-date with current research, practice and standards. New developments in measurement, materials, theory and practice since the first edition (published in 2004) are included. The sections on absorbers are extended to include more about noise control.

Introduction  1. Applications and Basic Principles of Absorbers  2. Applications and Basic Principles of Diffusers  3. Measurement of Absorber Properties  4. Measurement and Characterization of Diffuse Reflections or Scattering  5. Porous Absorption  6. Resonant Absorbers  7. Some Other Absorbers  8. Prediction of Scattering  9. Schroeder Diffusers  10. Geometric Reflectors and Diffusers  11. Hybrid Surfaces  12. Absorbers and Diffusers in Rooms and Geometric Models  13. Active Absorbers and Diffusers Appendix A: Table of Absorption Coefficients  Appendix B: MATLAB Scripts  Appendix C: Diffusion and Scattering Coefficients

Trevor Cox is Professor of Acoustics at Salford University.

Peter D'Antonio is CEO of RPG Diffusor Systems Inc.